Rather than take advantage of the tremendous technological advances and cost reductions in renewables and energy storage that have unfolded in recent years, this move further entrenches the province’s dependence on expensive and high-polluting fossil fuel infrastructure.

These technologies are reliable, cost-effective and ensure that MB does its fair share to limit further greenhouse gas emissions. What are we waiting for?

Instead of investing in a gas-fired power plant for Hydro, MB should build grid-scale battery storage in the short term and develop a coordinated mix of wind, solar and diverse energy storage options over the next several decades.

More info here on why Direct Air Capture isn't a climate solution for Manitoba: climateactionmb.ca/why-direct-a...

Read more here: climateactionmb.ca/newly-announ...

The announcement of this unproven and risky technology which serves to delay the transition off of fossil fuels is HIGHLY concerning, particularly as it comes just three days after the provincial Path to Net Zero which contained some promising pledges for proven solutions to cut emissions.

The plan makes some encouraging new commitments and highlights the centrality of Indigenous leadership in a just transition, but whether it makes a significant dent in emissions will be determined by the action plans and investments to come. More on CAT's response: climateactionmb.ca/manitobas-ne...